Archive for August 14th, 2009

While mobile search has come a long way in a short time, there are still some hurdles that need to be addressed before it becomes the mainstream default standard. Here are 4 that jump out at me immediately:

Browser Variations: The variety of mobile browsers itself is a challenge, as they render web sites differently. The top browsers include Safari, Internet Explorer Mobile, Opera Mobile and Android amongst others.

Interactive Media Streaming: Most mobile browsers today do not support Flash or Silverlight, requiring separate applications or methods for accessing streaming media.

Silverlight for Mobile Site: Silverlight mobile is in development but currently not available. For now, it is best to ensure your core web properties are not heavily Silverlight dependant.

Flash Lite 3: Flash Lite 3 is Adobe’s mobile and internet connected TV solution which has recently been announced, but adoption and availability is low with few working demos on Windows Mobile 6.5 and Opera Mobile 9.5. Adoption is sure to increase but for now, it is safer to make your web pages not heavily Flash dependent.

Flash on iPhone or iPod Touch: Currently Flash content is only available via the YouTube specific app. An iPhone specific Flash implementation made for Safari is in the works, but for now it is best to not be Flash dependent.

Apps: Although web dependant software for mobile phones has been around for years, Apps as we know them today have recently taken off courtesy of the Apple App Store. Apps are increasingly appearing as a way to “browse” specific websites – bypassing the limitations and challenges with the browser. More to come on Apps soon.